Apparatus with optical functionality and associated methods

ABSTRACT

In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus includes a sensor integrated circuit (IC). The at least one integrated photodetector that is adapted to sense light, and an integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is coupled to the at least one integrated photodetector, and is adapted to convert an output signal of one or more of the at least one integrated photodetector to one or more digital signals. The sensor integrated circuit (IC) further includes an integrated controller that is adapted to facilitate operation of the sensor integrated circuit (IC).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to, and incorporates by reference, U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/323,798, filed on Apr. 13,2010, titled “Apparatus with Optical Functionality and AssociatedMethods,” attorney docket number SILA300P1.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed concepts relate generally to electronic apparatus and,more particularly, to electronic apparatus with optical functionality,related systems, and associated methods.

BACKGROUND

Relatively recent technical advances have resulted in the use of severaltechnologies in a one product. For example, mobile devices, such asmobile telephones, portable computing devices, personal digitalassistants (PDAs), and the like may include electronic circuitry as welloptical functionality.

The use of both electronic circuitry and optical functionality allowsthe device to provide new features, additional functionality, and/orconvenience. For example, a device may sense ambient light levels andadjust display contrast or brightness accordingly. As another example, adevice may sense proximity to an object or user, and turn off or turn onthe display (e.g., a mobile telephone may turn off the display when theuser holds the telephone close to his/her face or ear).

SUMMARY

The disclosure relates generally to electronic apparatus and, moreparticularly, to electronic apparatus with optical functionality,related systems, and associated methods. In one exemplary embodiment, anapparatus includes a sensor integrated circuit (IC). The sensor ICincludes at least one integrated photodetector adapted to sense light,and an integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC) coupled to the atleast one integrated photodetector. The integrated ADC is adapted toconvert an output signal of one or more of the at least one integratedphotodetector to one or more digital signals. The sensor IC furtherincludes an integrated controller that is adapted to facilitateoperation of the sensor IC.

In another exemplary embodiment, a system includes a sensor IC. Thesensor IC includes a serial interface and an integrated proximity sensoradapted to sense proximity of an object to the first sensor IC and/or anintegrated ambient sensor (ALS) adapted to sense ambient light. Thesystem further includes a host processor coupled to the sensor IC,wherein the sensor IC communicates a signal related to the proximity ofthe object and/or a signal related to the ambient light.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, a method of sensing light using asensor IC includes sensing light by using at least one integratedphotodetector to generate at least one signal related to the sensedlight, and converting the at least one signal to a at least one digitalsignal by using an integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Themethod further includes controlling the sensing and convertingoperations by using an integrated controller.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments andtherefore should not be considered as limiting its scope. The disclosedconcepts lend themselves to other equally effective embodiments. In thedrawings, the same numeral designators used in more than one drawingdenote the same, similar, or equivalent functionality, components, orblocks.

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of a system according to anotherexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of a system according to another exemplaryembodiment that includes multiple sensor ICs.

FIG. 4 depicts a block diagram of a circuit arrangement that includes asensor IC according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of a reference circuit according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 depicts a block diagram representation of signal flow in areference circuit according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate use of a GPIO or programmable or configurable I/Ocircuit to perform various input/output or driver functionalityaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram of operations within a sensor IC or asystem containing sensor IC(s) according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 illustrates a representative timeline depicting relative timesof operation of the various modes in exemplary embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The disclosed concepts relate generally to electronic circuitry and/orsystems that also have optical functionality. In exemplary embodiments,the optical functionality may include proximity sensing, ambient lightsensing (ALS), or both. The ALS functionality may include sensing ofvisible light, infrared (IR) light, or both, as desired.

One aspect of the disclosed concepts relates to systems that includeoptical functionality. FIG. 1 illustrates a simplified block diagram ofa system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 1shows a low-power (i.e., relatively low-power consumption) host system100 incorporating a sensor IC 112 (or more than one sensor IC, asdesired) for optical functions.

Referring to FIG. 1, the system 100 uses a host processor or controller104 to govern the overall or system-wide functionality. Morespecifically, the host controller 104 interfaces to one or moreperipherals, labeled 110A-110B, on a shared serial bus 108, with pull-upresistors 106. The peripherals 110A-110B may constitute any desireddevice, circuit, system, or subsystem, as desired. Examples includedisplays, keys, buttons, keypads or keyboards, touch devices (inputand/or output), audio devices, indicators (light emitting diodes (LEDs),lights), actuators, sensors, etc. Note that in some embodiments, the busmay be a parallel bus, or the system 100 may use both serial andparallel buses, as desired.

One or more low drop-out (LDO) regulators 102 provide power to the hostcontroller 104 and/or other system components from a system supplysource (labeled VBAT in FIG. 1). Through one or more general-purposeinput-output (GPIO) terminals 111, the host controller 104 can managepower provided to a peripheral (e.g., 110A or 110B, or more than oneperipheral) by driving its power or supply input to ground with adigital output pin (e.g., VDD, VDDX, VDDY). When powered off, however,the peripheral(s) may not load the shared serial bus, thus allowing thehost controller 104 and other peripherals to use the bus.

In exemplary embodiments, the host system implementation eliminates thesecondary regulators or switches in a system. The host system may thusbe optimized for relatively low cost and power consumption.

In exemplary embodiments, the host controller or processor 104 mayconstitute a controller, microcontroller, processor, microprocessor,field-programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable controller, or thelike, as desired. In exemplary embodiments, the host processor 104 mayinclude one or more of integrated RAM (including program RAM, asdesired), ROM, flash memory (or non-volatile memory generally), one-timeprogrammable (OTP) circuitry, analog-to-digital converters (ADCs),digital-to-analog-converters (DACs), counters, timers, input/output(I/O) circuitry and controllers, reference circuitry, clock and timingcircuitry (including distribution circuitry), arithmetic circuitry(e.g., adders, subtracters, multipliers, dividers), general andprogrammable logic circuitry, power regulators, and the like, asdesired. Integrating one or more of the circuitry described above canimprove the overall performance in some applications, for example,flexibility, responsiveness, die area, cost, materials used, powerconsumption, reliability, robustness, and the like, as desired.

The host controller 104 uses the bus 108 to also communicate with thesensor IC 112. In the embodiment shown, the sensor IC 112 providesproximity sensing or detection, ambient light sensing or detection, orboth, as desired, via the proximity detector 114 and the ambient lightsensor or detector 116, respectively.

Specifically, the diode(s) 118 radiate IR light. Nearby object 120reflects some of the radiated IR light towards the sensor IC 112. Theproximity detector 114 detects some of the radiated IR light. Based oncharacteristics of the detected IR light (e.g., its intensity or level),the proximity detector 114 may provide information about the nearbyobject 120, for example, its distance from the sensor IC 112 or theproximity detector 114.

As noted, the ambient light detector 116 detects ambient light.Specifically, the ambient light detector 116 may provide informationabout the characteristics of ambient light, such as its intensity, type,or level. Based on that information, the system 100 may provideinformation to another apparatus, circuit, or system, for example,circuitry within a mobile telephone (not shown explicitly). As a result,the mobile telephone might take one or more actions, for example,adjusting the brightness and/or contrast of a display, depending on thelevel of ambient light.

FIG. 2 depicts a simplified block diagram of a system 130 according toanother exemplary embodiment. Some features of the system 130 aresimilar to the embodiment in FIG. 1, for example, the host processor orcontroller 104, the peripherals 110A-110B, the bus 108, the IR LEDs 118,etc. The embodiment in FIG. 2, however, shows how one may take advantageof the configurable features of the system, for example, certainfeatures in the GPIOs.

Specifically, the sensor 134 measures or determines the quantity of somestimulus (for example, the level of a current or voltage, etc.), andprovides the measured value to the sensor IC 112 via the GPIO 134A. Thesensor IC 112 may communicate the measured value and/or quantitiesderived from it to the processor 104, and may receive information fromthe processor 104 that it may use to conduct or perform its operations.

The sensor IC 112 may also receive information or signals form the photodetectors 132A-132B. The information may include optical signals. Insome embodiments, the photo detector 132A may constitute a proximitydetector, such as the proximity detector 114 in FIG. 1. Referring toFIG. 2, in some embodiments, the photo detector 132B may constitute anambient light detector, such as the ambient light detector 116.

Based on information from the optical detector(s) 132A-132B and/orinformation (including instructions) from the processor 104, the sensorIC 112 may provide information to the controller or actuator 136 via theGPIO 136A. The information may include commands or instructions, forexample, to activate and/or determine the functionality and/or operationof the controller or actuator 136. In response, the controller oractuator 136 may provide one or more outputs to other components orcircuits (not shown explicitly) in the system 130, for example, powerand/or control signals.

According to another aspect of the disclosed concepts, multiple sensorICs may be used in an apparatus or system, as desired. The inclusion ofmultiple sensor ICs can provide additional or enhanced system or devicecapability or functionality.

FIG. 3 shows a simplified block diagram of a system 140 according to anexemplary embodiment, which includes multiple sensor ICs. Specifically,the system 140 includes a plurality of sensor ICs 112A-112N (labeled as“Sensor IC 1” to “Sensor IC N,” respectively). One or more of the sensorICs 112A-112N may provide one or more of the optical functions describedabove (e.g., proximity detection, ambient light sensing).

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, individual GPIOs may be configured toallow operation of multiple optical sensor ICs 112A-112N in system 140.It may be desirable in some applications to synchronize operation ofindividual sensor ICs to prevent interference, and/or share resources.As an example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, Sensor IC1 and SensorIC2 are synchronized using signals INT and/or GPIO3, and use local LEDresources. Note that the sensor IC 112A may use LED resources coupled tothe sensor IC 112B by means of synchronization communication between thesensor ICs 112A-112B.

Furthermore, note that the sensor ICs 112B and 112N are synchronized bymeans of GPIO3 and/or INT or GPIO1, GPIO2 and they share LED resourcescoupled to both by means of synchronization communication between thesensor ICs 112B and 112N. One or more of the optical sensor ICs coupledto the system can communicate by dedicated GPIOs and synchronize theiroperation among each other and/or with host processor 104, as desired.

Other system functions may include control and monitoring functions anddigital-to-charge conversion. Additional sensors orcontrollers/actuators may be part of the system and directly controlledby one or more of the sensor ICs 112A-112N to further enhance systemcapability. Note that the embodiments shown in the figures provideexamples of systems incorporating sensor ICs according to the disclosedconcepts. One or more such sensor ICs may be used in a variety of otherconfigurations and systems, as desired, by making appropriatemodifications. Such modifications fall within the knowledge and skill ofpersons of ordinary skill in the art.

One aspect of the disclosed concepts relates to sensor ICs (for example,the sensor IC 112 in FIGS. 1-2 or, generally, any of the sensor ICsdiscussed above) optimized for use in various host systems, for example,the systems described above. In one exemplary embodiment, a sensor ICmay perform optical reflectance proximity, motion, and ambient lightfunctions with high sensitivity and reduced, optimized, and/or minimalpower consumption.

In exemplary embodiments, the IC provides a host processor with digitalmeasurements of light energy as sensed by on-chip photodiodes through atransparent IC package (or off-chip sensors, as desired). In exemplaryembodiments, proximity and motion are measured by illuminating one ormore external infrared LEDs (e.g., the LEDs 118) and sensing thereflected infrared light. In some exemplary embodiments, ambient lightis measured by sensing incident infrared and visible light andoptionally applying photopic correction.

In exemplary embodiments, relatively high sensitivity may be achieved bya direct coupling of the photodetectors to a delta-sigma ADC, havingrelatively high-resolution, via a multiplexer (MUX), and usingper-measurement calibration, as desired. As described below in detail,operation with relatively low power consumption may be achieved byoperating the LED drivers, ADC, and controlling circuitry at arelatively low duty cycle. Continuous power consumption in other blocksis kept to a minimum and/or relatively low or optimized levels.Operating the LED drivers, ADC, and controlling circuitry at low dutycycles reduces the power dissipation in the sensor IC and, hence, asystem in which the sensor IC may reside.

In some embodiments, the host processor or controller and the sensor IC(including some or all of the blocks of circuitry described in thisdocument, for example, photodiodes or detectors) may be integratedwithin one IC or device, as desired. In some embodiments, the hostprocessor and the sensor IC may be integrated within a singlesemiconductor die, as desired. The integration of the host processor andthe sensor IC (whether on a single die, within a multi-chip module(MCM), etc.) may provide advantages in some applications, for example,higher speed, lower cost, etc.

FIG. 4 illustrates a simplified block diagram of a circuit arrangement150 that includes a sensor IC according to an exemplary embodiment. Thesensor IC includes the following blocks or circuitry: Power-on Reset(POR) 156, Power Management Unit (PMU) 156, Real-Time Clock (RTC) 153,serial I/O 159, host interface 162, bandgap reference 168, digitallow-drop-out (LDO) regulator or circuit 171, brownout detector 174,oscillator with watchdog timer 183, controller 186 (including, asdesired, non-volatile memory (NVM)), register map 165, output control180, GPIOs with programmable fixed-current drivers 177, photodetectors195, 198, and 201 (which may be internal, i.e., integrated, or external,as desired), analog MUX 192, ADC 189, and other I/O pins (e.g.,interrupt pin 162A for host interface 162). The following sections ofthis document provide descriptions and exemplary embodiments of theblocks/circuits.

Photodetector 195 detects or senses light, for example, infrared lightin order to determine proximity of a nearby object. Photodetector 198detects or senses light, for example, ambient visible light.Photodetector 201 detects or senses light, for example, ambient infraredlight.

On initial power up, the POR circuit 156 holds the sensor IC in resetuntil a safe level for the supply voltage is attained. Once the POR isreleased, the PMU circuit 156 (shown as part of the POR circuit 156)starts the bandgap reference 168 and the digital core LDO 171, waitinguntil after the LDO level is settled before starting the oscillator 183and the controller 186. After chip initialization, the controller 186signals PMU 156 to put the sensor IC into sleep mode (to reduce powerconsumption). Note that, depending on application, the PMU 156 may notplace the sensor IC into sleep mode (cause the sensor IC to enter thesleep mode), as desired.

In one exemplary embodiment, for on-demand operation(s), the PMU 156wakes up the sensor IC (or other circuitry in the sensor IC) uponreceiving a wake-up signal from the host interface 162. After waking up,the controller 186 decodes the incoming host command and performs therequested operation(s).

In one exemplary embodiment, in autonomous mode, the PMU 156 wakes upthe sensor IC after receiving a signal from an internal programmabletimer, and performs operation(s) autonomously as previously specified bythe host (not shown explicitly).

After an operation is completed, the controller 186 signals the PMU 156to put the sensor IC into sleep mode until the next operation. Thispower-management scheme conserves power by shutting down high-powerblocks when their functions are not needed or used.

Since in exemplary embodiments it is powered continuously, analogcircuitry inside the PMU 156 is designed using relatively low-powerbiasing to reduce or minimize power consumption, given that, in typicalapplications, the IC spends the most time in sleep mode.

A low-power, low-frequency on-chip oscillator 153 is used to clock atimer (shown as part of oscillator 153). The timer is programmable bythe host processor (not shown explicitly) to control the rate of lightmeasurements in autonomous mode. The oscillator 153 uses relativelylow-power biasing to minimize power consumption. In applications wherethe sensor IC spends most of the time (or a relatively large percentageof the time) in sleep mode, this property is desirable as it reducespower consumption. The oscillator 153 may be calibrated to reduce orminimize the effects of semiconductor fabrication process variations onits output frequency.

A serial input/output interface 159 is used to communicate with the hostprocessor (not shown explicitly) over a serial protocol, such as I2C orSMB although one may use other types of protocol depending on factorssuch as given specifications or intended applications. In one suchserial protocol, one line is used as a clock (SCL), while another is abidirectional data line (SDA). These are used to send controlinformation or read light measurements or status to/from the sensor IC.

In exemplary embodiments, the serial clock, serial data, and interruptI/O structures are designed to allow the sensor IC 112 to be powereddown while not loading the shared data lines in the host system.Similarly, the LED I/O structures allow sensor IC 112 to be powered downwhile not drawing current from the shared or independent LED powersupply. This allows the sensor IC 112 to be powered from a hostprocessor I/O pin, thus simplifying system power management and reducingsystem cost.

The host interface 162 connects the serial I/O block to the internalcontroller 186 via the controller register map 165. The controllerregister map 165 contains control registers, parameters, and measureddata. Some registers are shared with the internal controller 186. Uponreceipt of an appropriate command from the host, the host interface 162sends a wakeup signal to the PMU 156 to initiate an on-demand lightreading. The host interface 162 also controls an interrupt pin 162A foralerting the host processor when a light reading is available, when alight reading exceeds a prescribed threshold, or other events, asdesired.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the sensor IC has processand convert modes. In those modes, the LDO regulator 171 powers thehigh-speed oscillator 183, the controller 186, and the ADC digitalcircuitry 189A. In sleep mode, the LDO 171 is powered down by the PMU156. During this mode, the controller and register map states aremaintained by the use of data retention flip-flops (not shownexplicitly) that use the external power supply to latch their heldvalues.

The brownout detection circuit 174 provides a failsafe for drops in thesensor IC's external voltage supply. It compares the supply level (or ascaled version of it) to the bandgap reference voltage from bandgapcircuit 168, and signals the PMU 156 when the supply falls below aspecified level. The brownout detection voltage level may be calibratedto minimize the effect of semiconductor fabrication process variations.

The high-speed on-chip oscillator 183, powered by the LDO regulator 171,is used to clock the controller 186 and the ADC 189. In the process modeof the sensor IC, the oscillator 183 clocks the controller 186. In theconvert mode, the oscillator 183 clocks the ADC 189, while processing bythe controller 186 is suspended. In the sleep mode, the oscillator 183is powered down with the rest of the digital blocks powered from thedigital LDO 171. The oscillator 183 may be calibrated to minimize theeffect of semiconductor fabrication process variations on its outputfrequency.

A watchdog timer (shown as part of the oscillator 183) may be includedto monitor transitions on the output of the oscillator 183. If apredetermined amount of time passes without a clock edge, a clockfailure signal may be sent to the PMU 156 for handling of the clockfailure. In some embodiments, the watchdog timer may generate a resetsignal for the sensor IC under these or other desired circumstances.

In exemplary embodiments, the controller 186 constitutes a flexibleprogrammable controller, used to coordinate the operations of thevarious blocks of the sensor IC. In exemplary embodiments, it receivescommands from the host interface 162, configures and enables the GPIOs,configures the ADC 189 and the analog MUX 192, controls the ADC 189,receives data from the ADC 189, and sends data to the host interface162. In exemplary embodiments, controller 186 uses analog MUX 192 toselect among any photodetectors on sensor IC 112, auxiliary internal orexternal signals, or external sensors via dedicated I/Os. A zero-signalinput may be selected for purpose of per-reading calibration. Thetemperature voltage output from the bandgap reference circuit (describedbelow in detail) may also be selected for digitizing the temperature.

ADC 189 is used to convert the level or intensity of incident light to adigital word for on-chip and host processing. In exemplary embodiments,ADC 189 is a current-input incremental-mode second-order delta-sigmamodulator. The 1-bit data output stream is double-integrated to providean output code proportional to the incoming light level.

In exemplary embodiments, the controller 186 may constitute acontroller, microcontroller, processor, microprocessor,field-programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable controller, or thelike, as desired. In exemplary embodiments, the controller 186 mayinclude one or more of integrated RAM (including program RAM, asdesired), ROM, flash memory (or non-volatile memory generally), one-timeprogrammable (OTP) circuitry, analog-to-digital converters (ADCs),digital-to-analog-converters (DACs), counters, timers, input/output(I/O) circuitry and controllers, reference circuitry, clock and timingcircuitry (including distribution circuitry), arithmetic circuitry(e.g., adders, subtracters, multipliers, dividers), general andprogrammable logic circuitry, power regulators, and the like, asdesired.

In exemplary embodiments, program software is stored in nonvolatilememory (NVM). In exemplary embodiments, the NVM is designed to be immuneor substantially immune to ambient light by using a dedicated lightshield, for example, a metal shield). Ambient light effects on thesensor IC (except the photodetectors) should be minimized or reduced,given that the sensor IC is packaged in a light-transparentencapsulation.

When operating in the process mode, the controller 186 functionsaccording to its stored program. Integrating one or more of thecircuitry described above can improve the overall performance in someapplications, for example, flexibility, responsiveness, die area, cost,materials used, power consumption, reliability, robustness, and thelike, as desired.

The controller 186 provides different functionality depending on themode of operation of the sensor IC. In the convert mode, the controllerclock is interrupted while the ADC 189 performs analog-to-digitalconversion of the incoming light signal. This scheme both conservespower and provides a quieter environment (from a noise and/or EMI/EMCpoint-of-view) for precision analog-to-digital conversion. Thecontroller clock is restarted after the ADC operation is completed. Inthe sleep mode, the controller 186 is powered down to conserve power.Controller state is maintained by the use of data retention flip-flops(not shown explicitly) that use the external power supply to latch theirheld values, as described above.

The register map 165 contains status, control, and data for the sensorIC. Some register values are shared with the host interface 162 totransfer commands and data to or from the host interface 162. In thesleep mode, register map state is maintained by the use of dataretention flip-flops that use the external power supply to latch theirheld values. In the sleep mode, register map state is maintained by theuse of data retention flip-flops (not shown explicitly) that use theexternal power supply to latch their held values.

The output block 180, labeled as “LED control” in FIG. 4, interfaces thecontroller 186 to the GPIO drivers (or LED drivers) 177. Depending onthe requested function, the output control block 180 configures andpowers up the output drivers 177 with the prescribed current level. Theoutput control is flexible, and allows using any combination of outputdrivers sequentially or simultaneously for measurement, as desired. Theoutput driver(s) 177 may be independently controlled for differentcurrent levels, as desired.

In exemplary embodiments, a separate pin 204 may be used to provide therelatively high programming voltage (labeled “VPP”) used by the NVMduring manufacturing. It may not be coupled or used in the end system oruser application. In other exemplary embodiments, this functionality maybe realized using a shared pin and internal multiplexing, as desired.

As noted, sensor ICs according to exemplary embodiments may include oneor more bandgap voltage and/or current reference circuits. In anexemplary embodiment, the sensor IC includes a temperature-compensatedvoltage reference, a temperature-compensated current reference, and atemperature sensor.

In other embodiments, one may omit one or more of the foregoing items.For example, in some embodiments, the sensor IC may omit thetemperature-compensated voltage reference or the temperature-compensatedcurrent reference. If included, the voltage reference is used to set theoutput voltage of the digital LDO, the full-scale level of the ADC, andthe trip level of the brownout detector. The voltage reference may becalibrated to minimize the effect of semiconductor fabrication processvariations.

The current reference provides bias currents to the ADC and the LEDdrivers. In exemplary embodiments, the current reference is implementedin a relatively area-efficient manner that can also provide temperaturecompensation, as desired. A temperature sensor provides a voltage thatis proportional to absolute temperature. This voltage may be digitizedby the ADC to provide either temperature readings to the host or providefor temperature correction of photodetector measurements. To save power,the temperature sensor may be disabled by the host, as desired.

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of a reference circuit 250 accordingto an exemplary embodiment. Reference circuit 250 provides atemperature-compensated bandgap voltage (or current, by makingappropriate modifications known to persons of ordinary skill in theart), a temperature-compensated current, and a temperature sensor (i.e.,a voltage that varies proportionally to temperature). Transistors 280and 283, resistor 286, difference amplifier 289, and transistors 253 and256 form a bandgap circuit, as known to persons of ordinary skill in theart. Transistors 253, 256, 259, 262, and 265 have the same orsubstantially same gate-source voltage, and therefore form a currentmirror.

Transistor 259 supplies current to resistor 274 and transistor 277.Resistor 274 and transistor 277 provide a bandgap voltage, V_(BG).Resistor 274 allows the changing or trimming of the bandgap voltage. Inexemplary embodiments, resistor 274 may have taps or may be variable. Inexemplary embodiments, resistor 274 may be trimmed or changed atproduction time, and its value may be stored in the sensor IC, forexample, by using OTP memory, flash memory, and the like.

The voltage across transistor 277, V_(IPTAT), has an inverse or negativetemperature coefficient, whereas the voltage across resistor 274,V_(PTAT), has a direct or positive temperature coefficient. Transistor277 and resistor 274 may be designed, selected, or configured (duringdesign, production, and/or use) so that variations in the voltageV_(IPTAT) and the voltage V_(PTAT) as a result of changes in temperaturecancel each other or substantially cancel each other or tend to canceleach other. Consequently, the voltage V_(BG) is independent oftemperature or is substantially independent of temperature or tends tobe independent of temperature.

Transistor 262 supplies current to resistor 271. The voltage acrossresistor 271 varies as a function of temperature. Buffer 268 presents arelatively high impedance to resistor 271 and transistor 262, andbuffers the voltage across resistor 271. The output of buffer 268provides a temperature-dependent voltage, V_(TEMP).

Transistor 265 supplies a reference current, I_(REF). The referencecurrent may supply current to various circuitry within or external tothe sensor IC. For example, in exemplary embodiments, the referencecurrent may serve as a bias current for various circuitry, a referencecurrent for comparison to other currents, etc.

FIG. 6 depicts a block diagram representation or signal flow diagram ina generalized reference circuit according to an exemplary embodiment.Thus, the block diagram in FIG. 6 may correspond to reference circuit250 in FIG. 5. Referring to FIG. 6, blocks A, B, 1/R, and C representgain blocks (e.g., buffers, amplifiers, etc.), for example,approximately the gains of transistor 272, resistor 274, transistor 265,and buffer 268 in reference circuit 250. The bandgap voltage, V_(BG),results from summing the outputs of blocks A and B, i.e., from scalingV_(PTAT) by A and B and summing the results. The reference current,I_(REF), results from scaling V_(PTAT) by 1/R, and the voltage V_(TEMP)results from scaling V_(PTAT) by C.

As noted, sensor ICs according to exemplary embodiments may include oneor more GPIOs. The GPIOs may provide a variety of functions, forexample, couple programmable fixed-current driver(s) to power externalLED(s) used primarily for proximity detection or measurement, and thelike. Generally, in some embodiments, the LED driver pin of the opticalIC may be reconfigured as a general purpose input/output to enable othersystem functions. The different operating modes are enabled or disabledby bit controls from control registers, e.g., control register map 165.

The LED current level(s) is (are) programmable to provide illuminationlevels for different detection or measurement ranges. In one exemplaryembodiment, up to three LEDs may be driven, depending on the complexityof proximity or motion detection/measurement being performed. One mayuse different numbers of LEDs, however, as desired, by makingappropriate changes. Those changes fall within the knowledge and skillof persons of ordinary skill in the art.

The system battery potential may exceed the maximum voltage in thechosen IC semiconductor fabrication process technology. In an exemplaryembodiment, the LED drivers are designed to tolerate this voltage levelwhen the LEDs are turned off. This feature prevents damage to the ICwhen the LEDs are powered off and the LED package pins are pulled up bythe system battery or supply source.

The large current source driver transistors used for LED illuminationare also used to absorb electrostatic discharge (ESD) energy. A dv/dtsensor (a sensor for sensing the rate of change of voltage as a functionof time) on one or more LED pin senses the voltage ramp on the pin, andturns on the output driver transistor during an ESD event. While in theon state, the driver device limits the voltage on the pin, thuspreventing damage to circuitry within the sensor IC and/or system. Inexemplary embodiments, the current output ramp rate is also controlledto limit inductive voltage drops (for example, because of parasiticinductance) and radiated electromagnetic energy.

In one exemplary embodiment, the LED drivers are also designed to enableanalog and digital I/O on the same package pins. This feature enablesnonvolatile memory programming access as well as debug and manufacturingtest access. It also enables additional system-level functions describedherein.

In exemplary embodiments, GPIOs may provide supplemental I/Ofunctionality or modes. For example, in some embodiments, the principalI/O function, for example, LED driver output, is multiplexed withsupplemental functions, such as a bidirectional current/voltage source,DAC output, ADC input, and implemented with the same I/O pin. In atypical application, the LED output is active during a limited period oftime and is inactive otherwise. It is therefore possible to reconfigureand use the LED GPIO(s) for other functionality.

In one embodiment, a plurality of LED driver I/Os are used. Some of thedriver I/Os may be re-configured to perform other functions as theirprimary purpose, or vary depending on the NVM code or externalconditions (for example, automatic detection of the presence of LED(s),external sensor input, servo control output).

The supplemental analog I/O mode function allows interfacing externalsensors or electrical quantities (for example, voltage, charge, current)to the internal ADC to perform other measurements (for example,humidity, passive infrared (PIR), temperature, light, and capacitance).In combination with the flexibility of NVM programming, various types ofsensors may be realized by the sensor IC, as desired.

The external pin configuration (e.g., type of sensor, attached devicedigital ID, or measured electrical quantity) may be detected by thecontroller (e.g., controller 186 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4) andthe controller can execute code stored in the NVM specific to amomentary external configuration. An LED driver pin may outputprogrammable current and voltage in two polarities. In exemplaryembodiments, it is also possible to operate the LED driversimultaneously in a combination of functional modes (for example, an LEDcurrent can be turned on with the analog input active so the pin voltagecan be measured internally by the ADC).

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate use of GPIOs or a programmable I/O circuit toperform various input/output or driver functionality according to anexemplary embodiment. FIG. 7 shows a circuit schematic of a GPIO in theLED driver mode according to an exemplary embodiment. Current sources303, which may be fixed or programmable, provide current to transistors306, 307, and 312. Transistors 306, 307, 309, and 312 provide biasvoltages to the gates of transistors 315 and 321A-321N. Transistor 315provides a current path for the source current of transistor 324. (Notethat transistor 315 may be turned off, if desired, by using additionalcontrol circuitry not shown in FIG. 7.)

The drain of transistor 324, via pin 327, conducts the supply currentfor LED 118 (shown as an external LED), provided by supply VBAT. One ormore switch(es) 321A-321N allow the programming of the LED current.Switch(es) 321A-321N are programmable in response to programmingsignal(s) (not shown explicitly) elsewhere in sensor IC 112 or receivedfrom a source external to sensor IC 112. In response to the programmingsignal(s) switch(es) 321A-321N turn on and conduct current, thusincreasing the LED current in one or more desired steps.

FIG. 8 shows a circuit configuration for provided analog I/O capabilityaccording to an exemplary embodiment. In this mode, in response tocontrol signal(s) (not shown explicitly) control circuit 333 (forexample, a MUX or similar circuit or device) causes transistor 324 toturn on, and transistor 315 to turn off.

Control circuit 333, via inverter 336, also provides control signals toanalog transmission gate or switch 339, and causes analog transmissiongate 339 to turn on. Consequently, analog transmission gate 339 couplesexternal signal line 342 to internal signal line 345, and providescommunication from circuitry internal to sensor IC 112 to/from circuitryexternal to sensor IC 112, as desired. Thus, an analog signal may beprovided to sensor IC 112 via pin 327 for internal use, such as sensing,control, etc. Similarly, an analog signal may be provided from internalcircuitry of sensor IC 112 for external use, for example, sensing,control, and the like.

FIG. 9 depicts a circuit configuration for provided digital inputcapability according to an exemplary embodiment. In this mode, inresponse to control signal(s) (not shown explicitly) control circuit 333causes transistor 324 to turn on, and transistor 315 to turn off. As aresult, transistor 324 provides to inverters 353A-B a digital signalapplied to pad 327 of sensor IC 112. Inverters 353A-B optionally providebuffering and conditioning of the input digital signal (e.g., to restoresignal levels). The output of inverter 353B provides a buffered/restoredversion of the input digital signal to desired destination circuitrywithin sensor IC 112.

FIG. 10 illustrates a circuit configuration for provided digital outputcapability according to an exemplary embodiment. In this mode, inresponse to control signal(s) (not shown explicitly) control circuit 333causes transistor 324 to turn on, thus coupling pin 327 to the drain oftransistor 315.

A digital signal (e.g., from the core circuitry of sensor IC 112 or anydesired source circuitry within sensor IC 112) drives the input ofinverter 378. The output of inverter 378 drives the gate of transistor315. Thus, if the digital signal is a logic 0, inverter 378 causestransistor 315 to turn on, thus providing a logic 0 signal to pin 327.Conversely, if the digital signal is a logic 1, inverter 378 causestransistor 315 to turn off, thus allowing pull-up resistor 381 to pullpin 327 to a logic 1. In the embodiment shown, resistor 381 pulls up pin327 to the voltage level of external supply voltage VIO (assuming noappreciable current flow through resistor 381).

In exemplary embodiments, on-chip detectors are used to sense light thatfalls on the sensor IC through a transparent encapsulant via on-chipphotodetectors. In typical applications, it is desirable to prevent orreduce light absorption in the semiconductor die outside the activeoptical area of the photodetectors, such that incident light does notinterfere (or does not substantially interfere) with normal electricaloperation of the IC.

In some embodiments, junction silicon photodiode may be used. A typicaljunction silicon photodiode in a substrate has a wide spectral response,with a peak in the infrared spectrum. Thus, by using an infrared lightsource as the stimulus for proximity detection or measurement, one mayincrease sensitivity. In one exemplary embodiment, a dual-junctionvertical semiconductor p/n/p stack is used for photodetection. An upperp/n junction (p-active to n-well) is relatively shallow, and respondsmainly to visible light spectrum. A bottom n/p junction (n-well top-substrate) responds mostly to infrared light spectrum. The upperjunction and the lower junction are used, respectively, to measurevisible light for ambient light sensing (ALS) and proximity sensing (PS)but also for optional spectral correction of ALS.

In some embodiments, the upper and lower junctions are implemented as aplurality of vertical structures. A multiplexer can select anappropriate detector for each measurement mode (two identical structureswith different optical areas are used in an exemplary embodiment).

If the infrared signal photodiode is constructed from a continuous Nwellin P substrate but also has a shorted P diffusion in the Nwell, theNwell to P substrate diode will have relatively strong infrared responsewith a reduced visible component, especially if the Nwell is relativelydeep (for example, on the order of 3 microns). Since the lightabsorption depth increases with wavelength, the shorter visiblewavelengths get absorbed near the surface in the Nwell and the carriersget collected by the shorted P diffusion on top of the Nwell, while thelonger wave infrared penetrates and get absorbed in the substrate, andthe resulting carriers get collected by the Nwell.

This diode structure can reduce the visible component response thatleaks through the infrared filter by one half. This diode structure maybe used in exemplary embodiments, as desired.

As noted, one aspect of the disclosed concepts relates to powermanagement, such as power management in sensor ICs and/or in systemsthat employ sensor ICs. A system containing one or more sensor ICs (forexample, the systems in FIGS. 1-3), or a sensor IC, can use a number ofstrategies to reduce power consumption and operate relativelyefficiently.

As described below in detail, the system or sensor IC operates blockswith relatively high power consumption at relatively low duty cycle(s)to reduce or minimize overall power consumption. Typically, some blocksoperate continuously. To reduce overall power consumption, those blocksare optimized for relatively low power operation.

Generally speaking, a system containing one or more sensor ICs or asensor IC according to exemplary embodiments has three modes ofoperation: process mode, convert mode, and sleep mode. Table 1 belowshows blocks of circuitry that are active (or on) and inactive (or off)in various modes of operation in an exemplary embodiment:

TABLE 1 Mode Activities Process Controller 186 is active or on; LEDdrivers 177 and ADC 189 are inactive or off; other supporting circuitryare active or on, as desired, depending on application ConvertController 186 is suspended; LED drivers 177 and ADC 189, and supportingcircuitry are active or on Sleep PMU (part of 156) circuitry, serial I/Ocircuitry 159, and host interface circuitry 162 are active or on

FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram 400 of operations within a sensor IC or asystem containing sensor IC(s) according to an exemplary embodiment. Thelabels for the various blocks indicate the mode of operation to whichthe block pertains. Specifically, a trailing “C” in the label indicatesthe block pertains to the convert mode, while trailing “S” and “P” inthe label designate the block operation(s) as pertaining to the sleepand process modes, respectively. Thus, as examples, blocks 402P, 409S,and 427C in FIG. 11 pertain, respectively, to the process, sleep, andconvert modes of operation.

Referring to FIG. 11, at 403P, the system or sensor IC (e.g., sensor IC112 in FIG. 4) powers up and initializes. Subsequently, at 406S, thesystem or sensor IC enters the sleep mode or is run in the sleep mode.

One or both conditions (and/or other condition(s)) may cause the systemor sensor IC to leave the sleep mode and enter another mode ofoperation: a host request, and a time-out or timer event or, generally,the passage of a given, desired, or programmed period of time. Referringto FIG. 11, while in the sleep mode, a check is made via block 412S fora host request. Similarly, at 409S a check is made for a time-out or theexpiration of a time-period. For example, by using a timer, the systemor sensor IC may be made to leave the sleep mode at desired intervals,at one or more desired points in time, etc.

In some embodiments, the checks in 412S and 409S occur at the same time.Generally, however, the checks may or may not occur simultaneously.Furthermore, in some embodiments, one of the checks may occur whereas,in other embodiments, both of the checks may occur.

Referring to FIG. 11, if a host request and/or time-out event exists,the system or sensor IC enters the process mode (is run in the processmode) at 415P. Otherwise, the sensor IC remains in the sleep mode (at406S).

When the system or sensor IC leaves the sleep mode, at 415P, the LDO 171and the controller 186 are enabled. At 418P, the desired conversion(s)is selected (e.g., conversion(s) for ambient light sensing, proximitysensing). At 421P, the analog MUX 192 is set up, the ADC 189 is started,and the controller 186 is suspended.

At 424C, the system or sensor IC enters the convert mode (is run in theprocess mode) of operation. More specifically, at 424C, LEDs 118 areenabled if needed or desired. At 427C, ADC 189 is run or enabled, i.e.,used to perform analog-to-digital conversion. At the conclusion of thatoperation, at 430C, LEDs 118 are disabled if needed or desired (and ifenabled at 424C). The system or sensor IC then enters the process mode(is run in the process mode).

Specifically, at 433P, the controller 186 is restarted. The results ofthe analog-to-digital conversion are processed, stored, etc., asdesired. At 436P, a check is made to determine whether the desiredconversions have concluded. If so, at 439P, the host is notified, andthe system or sensor IC enters the sleep mode at 406S. If not, controlreturns to 418P to perform one or more additional conversions.

In exemplary embodiments, while powered, the system or sensor IC ismainly in sleep mode. Blocks of circuitry with relatively high powerconsumption are active when actively processing or performing desiredfunctions. Since detection can be done relatively quickly, time spent inthe sleep mode is maximized (i.e., power savings may be maximized orincreased).

FIG. 12 shows a representative timeline 500 that depicts relative timesof operation of the various modes in exemplary embodiments.Specifically, the timeline 500 shows the sequence of events oroperational modes of a system or sensor IC by making reference to theblocks or operations in FIG. 11. Thus, the timeline 500 shows that thesystem or sensor IC starts by powering up and initializing (403P in FIG.11), then enters the sleep mode (406S in FIG. 11), and then processesand converts information or data (e.g., 415P, 418P, 421P, 424C, 427C,430C, 433P, and 439P in FIG. 11). This sequence of events may repeat oneor more times, as desired.

As noted, various blocks or circuitry within the system or sensor IC inexemplary embodiments become active (on, enabled) or inactive (off,disabled) depending on the operational mode of the system or sensor IC.Table 2 below shows the state of various blocks or circuits depending onthe operational mode. The blocks or circuits may constitute the blocksor circuits in various embodiments of a sensor IC (or systems containingone or more such ICs), for example, sensor IC 112 in FIG. 4.

TABLE 2 State of Block/Circuit in Various Modes Block/Circuit SleepProcess Convert RTC, POR, PMU, Serial I/O, On On On Host InterfaceBandgap, LDO, Brownout Detector, Off On On Oscillator, Watchdog LEDdriver(s), LED control, ADC, Off Off On Analog MUX, Photodiode(s)Controller Register Map, Controller Off On Off (and NVM, if applicable)Thus, for the exemplary embodiment depicted, the LED driver(s), LEDcontrol, ADC, analog MUX, photodiode(s) are off in the sleep and processmodes, but on in the convert mode. The RTC, POR, PMU, serial I/O, andthe host Interface are on in all modes. The controller register map, thecontroller (and NVM, if applicable) are on in the process mode, but offin the sleep and convert modes of operation.

Note that the embodiments describe and shown for power managementrepresent illustrative examples. Of course, one may devise and employ awide variety of other power management schemes as desired, depending onsuch factors as design or performance specifications, availabletechnologies (e.g., fabrication technologies), and the like.

Referring to the figures, note that the various blocks shown mightdepict mainly the conceptual functions and signal flow. The actualcircuit implementation might or might not contain separatelyidentifiable hardware for the various functional blocks and might ormight not use the particular circuitry shown. For example, one maycombine the functionality of various blocks into one circuit block, asdesired. Furthermore, one may realize the functionality of a singleblock in several circuit blocks, as desired. The choice of circuitimplementation depends on various factors, such as particular design andperformance specifications for a given implementation. Othermodifications and alternative embodiments in addition to those describedhere will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art who havethe benefit of this disclosure. Accordingly, this description teachesthose skilled in the art the manner of carrying out the disclosedconcepts, and is to be construed as illustrative only.

The forms and embodiments shown and described should be taken asillustrative embodiments. Persons skilled in the art may make variouschanges in the shape, size and arrangement of parts without departingfrom the scope of the disclosed concepts in this document. For example,persons skilled in the art may substitute equivalent elements for theelements illustrated and described here. Moreover, persons skilled inthe art may use certain features of the disclosed concepts independentlyof the use of other features, without departing from the scope of thedisclosed concepts.

1. An apparatus, comprising: a sensor integrated circuit (IC),comprising: at least one integrated photodetector adapted to senselight; an integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC) coupled to the atleast one integrated photodetector, and adapted to convert an outputsignal of one or more of the at least one integrated photodetector toone or more digital signals; and an integrated controller adapted tofacilitate operation of the sensor integrated circuit (IC).
 2. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one integratedphotodetector comprises a visible ambient light sensor (ALS).
 3. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one integratedphotodetector comprises an infrared ambient light sensor (ALS).
 4. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one integratedphotodetector comprises a proximity sensor.
 5. The apparatus accordingto claim 1, wherein the at least one integrated photodetector couples tothe integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC) via an analogmultiplexer (MUX).
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, furthercomprising an integrated programmable light emitting diode (LED) drivercoupled to the integrated controller.
 7. The apparatus according toclaim 6, wherein the integrated programmable light emitting diode (LED)driver drives at least one light emitting diode (LED) external to thesensor integrated circuit (IC).
 8. The apparatus according to claim 7,wherein the at least one light emitting diode (LED) comprises aninfrared light emitting diode (LED).
 9. The apparatus according to claim1, further comprising a host processor adapted to communicate with theintegrated controller.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 9, whereinthe host processor communicates with the integrated controller via hostinterface circuitry integrated in the sensor integrated circuit (IC).11. A system, comprising: a first sensor integrated circuit (IC),comprising a first serial interface, the first sensor integrated circuit(IC) further comprising an integrated proximity sensor adapted to senseproximity of an object to the first sensor integrated circuit (IC)and/or an integrated ambient sensor (ALS) adapted to sense ambientlight; and a host processor coupled to the first sensor integratedcircuit (IC) via the first serial interface, wherein the first sensorintegrated circuit (IC) communicates a signal related to the proximityof the object and/or a signal related to the ambient light.
 12. Thesystem according to claim 11, wherein the first sensor integratedcircuit (IC) communicates with the host processor via a serial bus. 13.The system according to claim 11, wherein the first sensor integratedcircuit (IC) comprises an integrated light emitting diode (LED) driveradapted to drive at least one light emitting diode (LED).
 14. The systemaccording to claim 13, wherein the first sensor integrated circuit (IC)drives the at least one light emitting diode (LED) via at least onegeneral purpose input output (GPIO) interface.
 15. The system accordingto claim 12, further comprising a second sensor integrated circuit (IC),comprising a second serial interface, wherein the second sensorintegrated circuit (IC) is coupled to the host processor via the serialbus.
 16. The system according to claim 12, further comprising at leastone peripheral coupled to the serial bus.
 17. The system according toclaim 11, further comprising communication circuitry.
 18. The systemaccording to claim 11, wherein the first sensor integrated circuit (IC)is coupled to a controller external to the first sensor integratedcircuit (IC).
 19. The system according to claim 11, wherein the firstsensor integrated circuit (IC) is coupled to a sensor external to thefirst sensor integrated circuit (IC).
 20. A method of sensing lightusing a sensor integrated circuit (IC), the method comprising: sensinglight by using at least one integrated photodetector to generate atleast one signal related to the sensed light; converting the at leastone signal to a at least one digital signal by using an integratedanalog-to-digital converter (ADC); controlling the sensing andconverting operations by using an integrated controller.
 21. The methodaccording to claim 20, wherein sensing light by using at least oneintegrated photodetector comprises sensing infrared light to determineproximity of a nearby object.
 22. The method according to claim 20,wherein sensing light by using at least one integrated photodetectorcomprises sensing ambient infrared light and/or sensing ambient visiblelight.
 23. The method according to claim 20, further comprising drivingat least one infrared light emitting diode (LED) by using an integratedlight emitting diode (LED) driver.
 24. The method according to claim 23,wherein driving at least one infrared light emitting diode (LED) furthercomprises programming a drive current of the at least one infrared lightemitting diode (LED).